Tim Southee aiming to improve on-field performance after quitting captaincy

New Zealand pacer Tim Southee quit captaincy just weeks ahead of the team's 3-match Test series against India. Southee in a statement said that he was looking to focus on his on-field performances.

In Short

• Tim Southee quit New Zealand Test captaincy
• Southee said that he will be focusing on his performances
• New Zealand recently lost 2-0 to Sri Lanka away from home

New Zealand seamer Tim Southee said that he will be concentrating on improving his on-field performance after qutting as the captain of the Test team. Southee's decision comes after New Zealand's 0-2 loss against Sri Lanka away from home and just weeks ahead of a 3-match Test series against India.

Southee, who captained New Zealand in 14 Test matches, holds a record of winning 6 and losing 6 games. In an official statement, Southee said that it was a privilege to lead the team and that he had always tried to put the team first.

“Captaining the Blackcaps in a format that’s so special to me, has been an absolute honour and a privilege. I’ve always tried to put the team first throughout my career and I believe this decision is the best for the team," Southee said in a statement released by New Zealand Cricket.

“I believe the way I can best serve the team moving forward is focusing on my performances on the field and getting back to my best, to continue taking wickets and helping New Zealand win Test matches. I will, as I’ve always done, continue to support my teammates, especially the exciting young bowlers making their way on the international stage," he further added.

TOM LATHAM TAKES OVER

Southee had taken over the role of the captain from Kane Williamson, one of New Zealand best ever Test captains. Southee would be handing over the role to Tom Latham, who has an experience of 80 Test matches and has captained New Zealand in 9 Test matches so far. Out of the 9 games that he has captained in, Latham has won 4 Tests.

“I wish Tom all the best in the role and he knows I’ll be there to support him on his journey, as he has done for me over the years,” Southee wished his best to Latham

New Zealand coach Gary Stead acknowledged Southee’s contribution to the Test team.

“Tim’s a fantastic player and a very good leader who is held in high regard by the players and support staff. He’s been a great servant of New Zealand Cricket over nearly 17 years playing on the international stage, and I’d like to acknowledge his humility in stepping down from the role as Test captain," Stead said.

“It’s not easy giving up something you love, but Tim is a true team-man and he’s made the decision with the team’s best interests at heart. He’s one of our greatest ever players and we still very much see him playing a part in our Test side moving forward,” concluded the head coach.